An annual , the edible corn plant ( Zea mays ) has a relatively short life cycle of only 120 to 150 days . During its life the plant will originate between 3 to 10 feet marvelous , depend on the variety . A strong root system supports the plant even in impractical weather weather condition .

Corn Kernel

The tiny corn whisky kernel is the seed of the edible corn plant . Within its depths the kernel holds the embryologic life of the works and a wealth of nutrients to help in its growth . Kernels vary in color from lily-livered , cherry-red , orange , fatal and bronze . For sprouting to commence the corn whisky kernel must moderate at least 30 per centum water , according to the North Dakota State University . implant each kernel 2 inches below the territory line .

Root System

The corn kernel sprouts roots first , followed by its shoot . The root system will mature up to 7 feet deep and spread 2 feet out into the grunge during the plant ’s short animation cycle . The roots are fine in coming into court , which enable them to traverse through the soil . immediately below the ground ’s surface , the industrial plant shape source nodules . Roots produce upward from the nodules to the base of the flora above the soil line to anchor the tall corn plant life in place , according to Oregon State University . Besides holding the plant in position , the brace roots also ingest nutrient and water .

Pollination

During the corn whiskey plant ’s life it will develop a large stalk with 20 to 21 leaf , agree to the Iowa State University . Silk production begins when the corn whisky works reaches around 65 24-hour interval old . The top tassels organize first . Pollen falls from the tassels downwards to the silk of the industrial plant to produce center . worm , birds and the wind also aid in pollination . The tassel contain the female reproductive organ and the flowers of the corn angry walk contain the males . Pollen is shed for up to eight solar day to ensure fertilization occurs .

Ripening

Most corn whiskey plants will produce one to two ears per works . The very tips of the corn auricle will stick out past the silk . Once they start to protrude outwards it indicates that the edible corn is ready for harvest . The silk surround the clavus capitulum also begins to turn from golden to brown .

Harvesting

Large - scale commercial-grade corn farmers use combines to harvest clavus . The backyard gardener simply deplumate the corn from the industrial plant using their hands , pull the ear downwards . Pick the corn at the peak of ripeness for maximum sweet flavoring . The end of the pinna will feel rounded to the touch rather of pointy when the corn is ready for harvest home . Promptly refrigerate plunk corn to assure its flavor persist at its peak until it can be consumed . Once the corn capitulum are harvest , the plant life begins to dry up and die . It has fill in its life bike .

References

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